Carob is considered a healthy alternative to chocolate. The carob tree grows in Mediterranean areas and is a member of the legume family. Carob is free from the stimulants caffeine and theobromine, which are found in chocolate. Carob is sweet, which makes it possible for products containing carob to have less added sugar. Aside from the health benefits of having no caffeine and being combined in products containing less sugar, carob contains a wide variety of vitamins and minerals -- and tastes delicious, too.
B Vitamins
There are eight distinct B vitamins -- and carob contains almost all of them according to the nutritional data facts found on Nutritiondata.Self.com. Thiamine, or B1, is involved in a variety of bodily processes, such as nervous system and muscle functioning. Carob contains as much vitamin B1 as asparagus or strawberries. Vitamin B2, known as riboflavin, is involved in vital metabolic processes in the body and is necessary for normal cell function, growth, and energy production, according to the Mayoclinic.com website. Other B vitamins contained in Carob include B3 -- niacin, B5 -- pantothenic acid, B9 -- folic acid, and B12 which is often used in energy boosting products.
Vitamin A
Carob also contains vitamin A, also known as retinol. All living organisms contain natural retinoids either as preformed vitamin A or as carotenoids. Vitamin A is required for a biological processes like vision and cellular growth. Carob contains more vitamin A than eggplant, asparagus, and beets, according to Gilead.net.
Vitamin D
A major biologic function of vitamin D is maintaining normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus in your body -- also found in carob. Vitamin D assists and enhances the absorption of calcium, which helps to form and maintain strong bones. According to Mayoclinic.com, recent research suggests vitamin D may provide a host of health benefits, including protection from osteoporosis, hypertension, cancer and several autoimmune diseases.
Vitamin E
Seven percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin E is contained in carob. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin and an anti-oxidant, making it beneficial for protecting the cells in your body. Alpha tocopherol, the specific form of vitamin E contained in carob, is the most active form in humans and helps to maintain good cholesterol. Vitamin E is often used to support the immune system, and ongoing research shows potential benefits for a host of health problems including heart disease, cancer and even cognitive decline.
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